Nottingham RC Juniors cycle for Charity and set World Records
Two members of Nottingham Rowing Club have used the revolutionary new Wattbike to set junior World Records for static cycling. Sam Ward and Edward Fisher set Under 18 and Under 16 world records respectively for cycling the greatest distance in their age group within a set period of time.
The Wattbike event took place in the busy entrance hall of an ASDA store in West Bridgford, Nottingham. Eleven bikes were set up, with the public invited to book slots in order to raise money for Children in Need. A great number of people decided to challenge themselves and have a go, helping to raise over £10,000 in the process.
Nottingham Rowing Club’s Sam Ward set an under 18 world record for his 12 hour stint on the bike, riding through the night to achieve his goal. In total he covered 263814 meters/163.9 miles in his 12 hours. He was well supported, with several members of his club attempting a 24 hour relay alongside him, creating a wonderful atmosphere during the hardest hours of the challenge.
Following the completion of his effort, an exhausted Sam said: "That was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done! It’s definitely more of a mental challenge than a physical one, especially during the early hours of the morning. The bike is incredible and I kept myself focused by checking out all of its features. After 12 hours though, I’m not the best of friends with the saddle – give me a cold morning in a boat on the Trent any day!"
Edward Fisher, a junior member of Nottingham Rowing Club also managed an under 16 world record for his four hour spell on the Wattbike in which he managed to cycle 110008 meters/68.4 miles. He said: "I started off just trying to support Sam, but it turned out I was doing quite well. I’m really pleased to have set a record for my age group – I’ll just have to aim at beating Sam next time."
Two other records were set over the course of the 24 hours. Ultra distance athlete, Neil Rhodes of Yeovil, set a 24 hour world record, celebrating his 51st birthday in the process. Perfect Motion, organisers of the event, also set a 24 hour relay world record.
The efforts of all the people taking part helped make the ASDA store the top fundraising branch in the country and served as a great spectacle. The generosity of all the shoppers and the people sponsoring the riders ensured that the event will help make a difference to the lives of children all over the world.
Co-ordinator of the rowing club’s relay, Martin Kay said: "What a fantastic day. There was a great buzz around the whole event and the camaraderie between everyone made it fun to be a part of. Above all though, I’m exceptionally proud of my guys. Sam and Edward deserved their records as they pushed themselves to the limit, and all the others who did the relay showed what a great bunch of youngsters the sport of rowing is able to attract. Well done to all involved."
Report from Nottingham Rowing Club
